Introduction:
Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu have become increasingly popular for watching television shows and movies. However, these services lack the community aspect of live TV. YouTube TV, launched in 2017, aims to bridge that gap by offering live TV streaming with a wide range of channels and add-ons. In this article, we will explore the features and pricing of YouTube TV, as well as its pros and cons.
YouTube TV Pricing and Channels:
YouTube TV offers a Base Plan starting at $72.99 per month, with a discounted rate of $57.99 for the first three months. The price has increased significantly since its launch, initially starting at $35 per month in 2017. These price hikes are attributed to licensing deals and the addition of new channels.
With YouTube TV, you can stream live and local sports, news, and shows from over 100 channels. The Base Plan includes major networks like NBC, CBS, ABC, and FOX, as well as popular sports networks like ESPN, NBA, MLB, and NFL. In fact, YouTube TV was the exclusive home of the NFL Sunday Ticket in 2023. Additionally, the Base Plan includes over 100 more channels, such as PBS, TNT, BET, TBS, Comedy Central, MTV, and Nickelodeon.
If you want to enhance your TV experience further, YouTube TV offers add-on networks at an additional cost. These include AMC+, HBO’s Max, Shudder, STARZ, Fox Soccer Plus, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, and more. Each add-on network comes with its own price point.
User Experience and Features:
YouTube TV provides an interactive user experience with unlimited space to store recorded shows. This feature allows users to rewind, fast forward, and pause their favorite shows without any limitations. The recorded shows are stored for a duration of nine months.
Furthermore, YouTube TV allows three simultaneous streams on the Base Plan. This means that three different people can watch shows simultaneously on different devices. For example, one person can watch a show on their phone, another can watch in the living room, and a third person can watch on their laptop. Additionally, YouTube TV allows for up to six accounts per household, ensuring that each family member can customize their own settings and preferences.
Downsides of YouTube TV:
While YouTube TV offers a wide range of channels and features, there are a few downsides to consider. Firstly, add-ons are not included in the Base Plan, meaning users have to pay extra to access additional networks, sports channels, Spanish language TV, and 4K content. These add-ons can significantly increase the monthly cost.
Another downside is that YouTube recently made ads unskippable on YouTube TV. This can be frustrating for users who prefer uninterrupted viewing. However, it is important to note that these ads help support the content creators and maintain the affordability of the service.
Conclusion:
YouTube TV provides a convenient solution for those who miss the community aspect of live TV while enjoying the flexibility of streaming services. With its wide range of channels and add-ons, YouTube TV offers a comprehensive entertainment package. The interactive user experience, simultaneous streaming options, and unlimited DVR storage make it a compelling choice for households with multiple viewers. However, users should be aware of the additional costs associated with add-ons and the recent change in unskippable ads. Despite these drawbacks, YouTube TV remains a popular choice for those seeking live TV streaming options.
